In the heart of the Eastern Free State, Annemien van Tonder nurses the sick animals on their farm back to health as she runs their household and cattle feedlot daily.
She regards herself as a “farm mom”, making sure everyone’s stomach is full every day. While her husband manages the sowing on their farm, Annemien runs the feedlot, where she not only ensures that the cattle and their calves are fed daily, but also cares for sick animals until they recover. She sees this as her passion and finds it deeply rewarding to nurse a sick calf back to health – especially when it’s strong enough to run after her for its milk.
Annemien was recently announced as a finalist in the Bayer Boervrou van die Jaar 2025 competition in the Farmer’s ife category.
Annemien and her husband farm with maize, soy, sunflowers and pecan nuts as well as cattle and broiler chickens. They also have steelworks on the farm called Wilton Plows, which was responsible for the design and still manufactures the famous Wilton plough.
She ensures everything runs smoothly, and hard work certainly doesn’t intimidate her.
What is your role on the farm?
I am the manager of our feedlot. I am very involved in the cattle department, where I also treat the sick cattle and try my best to get them back on their feet. I also take an active interest in what my husband is doing in the sowing department and help with the marketing of our pecan nuts.
How are you involved with your community?
I am involved in our church, farmers’ association, and rural safety initiatives. I am part of our women’s service committee and also assist my husband in the management of our farmers' association.
What does a typical day look like?
Every day on the farm is different, and not every day is easy. Some days we start before the sun rises, and other days are quieter. Every morning, I go through the pens to check on and treat all the sick animals. When I am done with the animals, I catch up with admin and spend time with our children. Adjusting feed rations and orders also form part of my weekly routine.
What are your biggest challenges?
My biggest challenges are the various diseases that threaten our cattle farming. Foot-and-mouth disease is currently a major problem for the farming community. As a community, we also work to address stock theft as well as ongoing illegal hunting with dogs in our district.
Who or what inspires you?
First and foremost, our Father, because without Him we would not have the privilege of living in this beautiful world. Then, my husband. He is a living example of never giving up. Even when things get tough, he sees it through, and it inspires everyone around him to do the same. He is also my greatest support and will hold up a flashlight at night when I need to treat a sick calf.
What makes you happy?
My family! My two children and my husband are my greatest gifts, and I can never thank them enough. As small as they are, my daughter and son teach me new things every day, like patience, love and appreciation. And there is the wonderful privilege of being able to live on the farm. The silence and fresh air are food for the soul, and watching the sunrise over the horizon every day is simply incredible.
Can you offer advice to other farmers’ wives?
Support your husband, even when he doesn’t say it. Get involved if you can. It is so satisfying to see the results of your hard work. Pray every day, because without strength from Above, no one can go on. Don’t give up when it gets hard, take a step back, think of a plan and take the bull by the horns.